Wondering about the Pony-Express.

On this day back in 1860, the Pony-Express riders made their first ride to deliver the mail.  The Pony-Express service was short lived; it was only in operation from April 3rd, 1860 to October 1861 but it played a great part in early America's West.  It was the fastest way to get communications to California from the rest of the county.  Here is a map of their route, it went from Kansas to California.

And this is what their badge looked like.  You know, I never knew that they wore a badge, did you?

This next picture depicts the Pony Express rider galloping across the plains.  Take notice of his saddle.



The saddle was extra light weight but what made it special was that the Mochila was draped over it and it had compartments to place the mail and small packages.  The picture above shows what they looked like.  The next picture of the Mochila and a saddle.  This one has rather small pockets, but the rider didn't want much additional weight on his horse.



The relay stations were place about every ten miles along the route because that is the approximate distance a horse can go at full gallop.  I have to agree that it would be a lot faster than a sailing boat that would have to go around the southern tip of South America.

I am sure glad they got all those Interstate Highways built, don't you?  Now, you all remember the pony express when you get your mail today, you hear?